Every object a possible instrument in rhythmic sensation 'STOMP'

William Kerns

Saturday

Feb 25, 2012 at 8:19 PM

There is still magic in "STOMP," a percussive celebration of physical expression and rhythms found in everyday objects.

The show has made at least five separate Lubbock visits, and questions Friday at City Bank Auditorium revolved around whether the eight cast members could reach out for something extra, and could they still bring "it."

Answers: Yes, and yes.

The ensemble made a gift of memorable moments, including the now classic opening that became an Academy Award-winning short film called "Brooms."

The show was born across the pond in England, but later earned Tony Awards on Broadway. It still includes such favorite moments as seemingly choreographed lighters, a trio of men marching across the stage with huge oil drums attached to their boots, and performers strapping on everything from sinks to heavy rubber rings, which appeared larger than truck tires.

Humorous visuals became a jaw-dropping sort when the cast used carefully timed movements to create original music. The speed with which they spun and bashed sticks together made one wonder how many knuckles were accidentally smashed in the rehearsal process.

The show remains a search for extraordinary sounds without the merit of true instrumentation. They shuffle, stamp, sweep, stop and impress ... whether using their hands to treat their own bodies as percussive instruments ... or discovering rhythms residing within a box of matches or the morning newspaper.

Where the show has grown and improved is in the fun audience interaction, and I don't just mean returning claps at request. Rather, without dialogue or introductions, the show creates an occasional story involving one cast member being left out.

Several cast members worked more closely with the audience, even using bits of improv that at times would momentarily crack up stoic, fellow cast members.

But as the show slipped past the expected intermission point and continued with 90 minutes of physical exertion, it was impossible not to be aware of the strength, dexterity and sheer stamina of eight cast members who could barely hide their fatigue at the end of this 90-minute show.

Props make it clear performers really use hands and drum sticks to beat the stuffing out of everything masquerading as instruments.

At the same time, whether sitting, standing or swinging from the top of a set which looked like a car crushing yard, it became clear that several cast members have powerful, individual drumming skills.

Skill levels vary.

After all, some may have started as dancers; you didn't see any of the men doing the splits.

As impressive as the power-drumming was the timing illustrated throughout. It became clear whether they were trading cans or pails or basketballs while performing - or moving high in the air, on makeshift swings, before performing like a Kodo drummer.

"STOMP" remains a challenge to the ear and human spirit, daring each to find, or make, music where there seemingly is none.

The comedy just makes the show more fun.

To comment on this story:

william.kerns@lubbockonline.com

• 766-8712

leesha.faulkner@lubbockonline.com • 766-8706

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